Fifty-Nine Students Hospitalised Following Fumes Exposure from Tank at JSW Jaigad Port in Ratnagiri

Officials reported that 59 students and a woman were affected by fumes from a storage tank in Maharashtra's Ratnagiri district. The incident occurred on Thursday at the JSW Jaigad Port LPG facility, according to police. However, the company denied any such event on their premises. The affected individuals were from Jaigad Vidya Mandir school, located near the facility.

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Among the 250 students present at the school, 53 boys, six girls, and a woman were hospitalised. They experienced eye irritation, restlessness, and nausea after exposure to fumes during a tank cleaning process. "Three students are in the ICU though their health is stable. Compared to the others, they are experiencing more restlessness and nausea, and have complained of an aggravated stomach ache," stated a health official from the district civil hospital.

Health and Safety Concerns

The affected students are under observation and are expected to be discharged by Friday afternoon. Doctors will perform thorough check-ups before allowing them to return home. The fumes originated from ethyl mercaptan, a colourless and flammable liquid with a strong odour. It is used as an odorant for natural gas and as a starting material for various products.

The company emphasised its commitment to safety in a statement: "We prioritize the safety and well-being of our employees, the community, and the environment. We adhere to stringent safety protocols and continuously monitor our operations to ensure they meet the highest standards." They assured that every precaution is taken to prevent incidents affecting community health.

Ethyl mercaptan is known for its use in plastics, insecticides, and antioxidants. The police confirmed its involvement in this incident. The company reiterated its dedication to maintaining safety standards and preventing any harm to nearby residents.

The situation highlights the importance of stringent safety measures in industrial operations near residential areas. Ensuring community health remains a priority for companies operating in such environments.